Born April 1, 1931, in Macon County, N.C., he was the son of the late Eugene and Clara Allman Holt. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Traci Holt Owens; twin sister, Jean Owens; and brother, Grady Holt.

Mr. Holt attended Cornelia First Presbyterian Church, having served as a deacon and was an enthusiastic Sunday School participant. He was a former member of N.E. Georgia Mountain Hiking Club, Nantahala Hiking Club, Soup Kitchen volunteer, Little Tennessee Water Association (Macon County), and Habitat for Humanity (Macon County). Mr. Holt was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served his country during the Korean Conflict. He was a professional firefighter, having served as assistant fire chief in Clarkesville, for four years, and formerly having served the citizens of Montgomery County, Md., with 25 years of loyal and dedicated service.